1978 Renault 4 vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 545 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 22.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
